Synopsis

Build a winning girls' soccer program, on the field and off. In Coaching Girls' Soccer Successfully, one of the nation's top high school coaches, Debra LaPrath, shares her expertise on all aspects of coaching. From establishing a coaching philosophy to making decisions during a game, this is the approach that has made her program a perennial powerhouse.

Coaching Girls' Soccer Successfully covers every aspect of the coach's role:

• Developing and perfecting skills
• Evaluating players and defining their roles
• Organizing productive practices
• Scouting and preparing for games
• Adding variety to training
• Developing leadership qualities
• Motivating the team
• Communicating on and off the field
Featuring seasonal training plans, drills for developing fundamental to advanced skills, and advice for handling off-the-field challenges, Coaching Girls' Soccer Successfully is the most comprehensive resource available for novice and experienced coaches alike.

Biography

Debra LaPrath has been head coach at California's Maria Carrillo High School since 1996. She has led MCHS to six consecutive North Coast Section finals and won back-to-back championships in 2001 and 2002.

LaPrath earned NSCAA State/Regional Coach of the Year (2011-12) and the All-Empire Coach of the Year (2011-12). She was awarded North Coast Section Coach of the Year honors in 2004, along with various conference and media Coach of the Year honors in 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, and 2002. She is a member of the National Soccer Coaches Association of America; the California Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance; and the National Education Association.

LaPrath grew up in San Diego playing for the San Diego Surf Soccer Club and moved to Sonoma County to play Soccer for Sonoma State University. She has coached for more than 18 years. In addition to her on-field success, LaPrath uses a variety of fund-raising, team-building, and community service projects to give her athletes a well-rounded experience and create a program that is greater than any one achievement. LaPrath believes it's most important to focus on helping to raise confident, happy young women. She lives in Rohnert Park, California.